AHL to discontinue ‘hybrid icing’ rule, for now

The American Hockey League announced today that it will discontinue the current test of AHL Rule 82.

The rule, referred to as “hybrid icing,” allowed for the whistle to be blown should a defending player be the first to reach the end zone face-off dots, provided the puck has crossed the goal line at that point.

“We believe that 564 games has been a sufficient test period for ‘hybrid icing’ and that the application of the rule has been positive for the most part,” AHL president Dave Andrews said. “But because we have more than 300 players recalled to the National Hockey League each season, it is our view that these players should have the benefit of a consistent application of the icing rule in both the AHL and NHL.”

“Hybrid icing” will continue to be in effect through Thursday’s games.

The rule was put in for safety reasons and seemed to be well-received. Don’t be surprised if the NHL decides to adopt it for next season, thus bringing it back to the AHL.